Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure

The Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure is an all-new race shoe designed for lightweight speed. Priced at $300, it competes with the ASICS Metaspeed Ray ($300) and Adidas Pro Evo 2 ($500). The Pure features a full slab of the PEBA-based Enerzy NXT, Mizuno’s softer race foam, with a full-length carbon fiber plate. Compared to the other marathon racers on the market, it is lower to the ground with only 34mm of foam in the heel. However, because the drop is very low at only 3.5mm, there is a lot of foam in the forefoot. The step-in feel is nice and the fit is dialed with a snug, performance fit. On the run, we found the toe-off to be quicker than the Hyperwarp Elite with a more aggressive rocker that pushes you onto the forefoot. It reminded us of the Takumi Sen 8 with the lower-stack, aggressive, fast feel but more comfortable and with a wider base. The foam is soft, but not too soft, and it delivers a fun, responsive, and smooth ride. If you are looking for a lightweight race shoe with serious speed assistance, an aggressive geometry, and a comfortable upper, you will enjoy the Pure. Our only question is whether it will be protective enough for the marathon distance.